Discover Amsterdam’s Windmills with Kids: A Fun and Educational Family Adventure

When people think of the Netherlands, windmills are often one of the first images that come to mind — and for good reason. These iconic Dutch structures are not only beautiful, but also rich in history and culture. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far from the city to experience them! Amsterdam is home to several impressive windmills that are easy to visit with children and perfect for a fun family day out.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best windmills in and around Amsterdam that are family-friendly, easy to reach, and full of interesting things for kids to see and do. Whether you're looking to learn more about Dutch history or just want to take some amazing photos, these windmills offer a unique glimpse into the Netherlands’ past — with plenty of room for play and exploration.

1. De Gooyer Windmill – Historic Landmark in Amsterdam East

Standing tall in Amsterdam Oost, the De Gooyer windmill is one of the most famous windmills in the city. While it's not open for tours, it’s still a great stop for families, especially because it's located right next to the popular Brouwerij ’t IJ brewery.

📍 Funenkade 7, Amsterdam
📸 Perfect for photos with a traditional Dutch backdrop
❌ Not accessible inside, but striking from the outside
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for kids to see the large sails up close

👉 Family Tip: Combine your visit with a relaxing walk along the canal or let the kids play in nearby Oosterpark.

2. Molen van Sloten – A Kid-Friendly Windmill Tour in Amsterdam

Looking for an interactive windmill experience? Molen van Sloten is a fully functioning windmill in the village of Sloten, a quiet part of Amsterdam. Families can explore the inside, climb the stairs, and take part in child-friendly guided tours. There's even a small Cooperage Museum showing how traditional wooden barrels were made.

📍 Akersluis 10, Amsterdam
🎟️ Entrance fee required, but family discounts often apply
🛠️ Includes access to the Cooperage Museum

👉 Family Tip: Stop by the nearby ice cream shop IJshoeve Sloten, then let the kids burn off energy at Speeltuin Sloten, a nearby local playground.

3. De Otter – A 17th-Century Windmill in Amsterdam West

Hidden in a quiet neighborhood in Amsterdam West, De Otter is a historic sawmill that dates back to 1631 — making it the oldest working windmill in the city. Although it’s usually closed to visitors, it’s worth a stop to admire from the outside.

📍 Gillis van Ledenberchstraat, Amsterdam
📸 Great spot for a quick photo and a bit of history
🏚️ Not open to the public, but surrounded by charming streets

👉 Family Tip: A short walk from the windmill leads to De Ruige Speelplaats, a nature-inspired adventure playground where kids can climb, explore, and play freely.

🚲 Bonus: Create Your Own Windmill Bike Tour in Amsterdam

Want to see them all? Rent bikes and turn your day into a windmill cycling tour through different parts of the city. It’s a fun and active way for kids to experience Amsterdam — and you’ll see some of its hidden gems along the way.

🧭 Plan More Kid-Friendly Activities in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is full of exciting adventures for families. From petting zoos and free playgrounds to interactive museums and canal walks, there’s always something new to explore.

Have you visited any of these windmills or discovered another hidden gem in Amsterdam with your kids? Let us know in the comments below!

👉 Check out our full guide to kid-friendly activities in Amsterdam for even more ideas!